Kilmarnock manager Mixu Paatelainen is not surprised Scottish referees are taking such extreme action.
Paatelainen warned last month match officials needed "breathing space" amid days of headlines over penalty decisions involving Celtic. So he can understand why category one referees have decided to withdraw their labour this weekend in a bid to stop the abuse that some have been subjected to.
Paatelainen, speaking moments after his club's Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash with Aberdeen at Rugby Park was given the go-ahead, explained: "That's why I said it because there was too much said about referees' performances and, even prior to matches, speculation about referees. I feel they do need a break and peace to perform to their best ability."
He added: "In the last few weeks that has not been the case. I'm disappointed they have taken the action they have. I would rather it was solved without any strike but unfortunately this is the situation.
"I'm glad the matches go ahead, I would have been very, very disappointed if they didn't. I can understand the refereeing point of view, there has been too much criticism. On the other hand, them going on strike is not good either."
Paatelainen has, on the whole, refrained from questioning referees' decisions since returning to Scottish football with Killie in the summer. And he hopes referees can secure a deal to ensure they are give the protection they desire when they return to action after the weekend.
The Scottish Football Association offered them a package of measures including a ban on managers commenting on decisions immediately after matches.
"There are always decisions going against you, there are always decisions that are wrong and you might lose a match because of that," Paatelainen said.
"Of course, that's very disappointing when that happens. But you have to understand that referees will make mistakes.
"Managers, coaches, players, all the people that make decisions, will make mistakes at some point. The day you stop making decisions, you stop making mistakes."
Source: PA
